John Windle Antiquarian Bookseller offers an exceptional selection of rare books and manuscripts from medieval times through the twentieth century. We specialize in illustrated material, particularly the work of William Blake and his circle and children's books. Located in downtown San Francisco, we have served an international clientele of private collectors, libraries, and institutions for 40 years.

The William Blake Gallery Has relocated to Suite 232We are open and showing pieces from previous exhibitions.The Commercial Engravings of William BlakeA Tribute to Gerald E. Bentley, Jr.49 Geary Street, Suite 232, San Francisco

Blake is best known today for his independent vision and experimental methods, yet he made his living as a commercial illustrator. This exhibition shines a light on those commissioned illustrations and the surprising range of books in which they appeared. In them we see his extraordinary versatility as an artist but also flashes of his visionary self—flashes not always appreciated by his publishers. On display are the books themselves, objects that are far less familiar to his admirers today, but that have much to say about Blake the artist. The exhibition is a small tribute to Gerald E. Bentley, Jr. (1930 – 2017), whose scholarship, including the monumental bibliography, Blake Books, contributed immeasurably to the understanding and appreciation of the enormous range of Blake’s works.